NSC Urges Team Nigeria to Shine at Dakar Youth Olympics

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has charged Team Nigeria’s contingent to the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, to compete with pride, discipline, and patriotism. During a send-off ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, Director-General Hon Bukola Olopade highlighted the historic nature of the Games, being the first Youth Olympic Games held in Africa.

He encouraged the athletes to maximize this opportunity as they aim for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Olopade assured the athletes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to their development in sports and education.

He noted the NSC's focus on grassroots sports development, which has identified promising young talents through the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) programme. The Nigerian contingent was presented in national kits, and NOC President Engr Habu Gumel assured that the athletes would receive adequate support and would compete fairly, adhering to anti-doping rules.

The Games will take place from 31 October to 13 November, with over 2,700 young athletes expected to participate.